Here's Who's Coming to This Year's 'Off the Page' Festival
Image: Heidi Besen/Shutterstock.com
Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources has announced the lineup for its 2026 "Off the Page" literary celebration. This year's featured authors include Anthony Horowitz, Brad Meltzer, Nathaniel Philbrick and Kate Quinn.
The annual event begins on Sunday, Nov. 1, with programming throughout the month at all 10 library branches and community venues. Events include author presentations, writing workshops, book signings, family activities and more. All events are free and open to the public. Here's a look at some of the highlights.
Publishing Day
Sunday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Selby Library
Selby Library will open on a special day for the launch of Off the Page with a writer conference and local author showcase featuring publishing industry experts and writing instructors.
Family Day
Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Shannon Staub Library
Family Day features story time, a petting zoo, crafts, refreshments and more, along with award-winning “Llama” series creators Heather Fox and Jonathan Stutzman and Disney entertainer Dapper Danielle.
Image: Courtesy Photo
Anthony Horowitz
Saturday, Nov. 7, 6-7:30 p.m. at Selby Library
Best-selling author and screenwriter Anthony Horowitz is the creator of the award-winning television series Foyle’s War” and author of the Alex Rider series and Magpie Murders, which was adapted into a television series on PBS.
Nathaniel Philbrick
Thursday, Nov. 12, 7 -9 p.m. at Riverview Performing Arts Center
National Book Award-winning author Nathaniel Philbrick is known for In the Heart of the Sea, which was adapted into a major motion picture, as well as the historical nonfiction works Mayflower and Travels with George.
Brad Meltzer
Friday, Nov. 13, 7-9 p.m. at Venice Performing Arts Center
New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer, author of The JFK Conspiracy, will discuss stories of heroism and history along with his newest novel The Viper.
Image: Kelsey Edwards Photo
Kate Quinn
Thursday, Nov. 19, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Venice Community Center
New York Times best-selling author Kate Quinn, author of The Alice Network and The Rose Code, will discuss her newest novel, “The Astral Library.”
Many more authors will participate throughout the month, and book sales and signings will be available while supplies last.
For more information, go to offthepagefl.com
